Boutique desert luxury comes to Dubai in fine form at the Al Maha Desert hotel, an exclusive retreat that certainly makes the most of its sand dune setting. In fact, Downtown Dubai is around 1 hour away from Al Maha Desert by car, so whilst you can visit the city’s highlights as a daytrip you are very much in the wilderness here. With that comes sprawling desert views, sunsets and wildlife spotting from your suite, the hotel’s al fresco dining terrace, and gorgeous swimming pool too.

This is a luxury Dubai hotel with a difference then, and staying at Al Maha Desert means all manner of exciting activities and excursions right on your doorstep. From archery to desert drives, conservation tours, camel trekking, wildlife walks or horse riding, you’ll not be short of things to do during this five-star Dubai getaway.

Back at the hotel however, there is reason to stay put. Every beautifully adorned suite (think huge Bedouin-style tents) comes with a private pool and terrace, lounge area, walk-in showers and a deep-soak tub, all wrapped in a distinctly Middle Eastern décor scheme which nicely sets the scene. The larger suites at Al Maha Desert then enjoy dining rooms, fully equipped kitchens, more outdoor space and multiple bathrooms and bedrooms too, making them great for families. Note however that children under 10 are not permitted, due to the prevalence of wildlife in the area.

Finally, Al Maha Desert doesn’t miss a beat with their gourmet restaurant or spa either. In Al Diwaan, the hotel’s fine dining eatery, expect gorgeous buffet spreads and refined Middle Eastern fare throughout the day, accompanied by more of those desert views, naturally. While pure R & R comes courtesy of Al Maha Desert’s Timeless Spa, where steam baths, scrubs, Ayurvedic and massage treatments are the order of the day.

Rooms: 42

Location: Dubai

Nearest Airport: Dubai International Airport

Board Basis: Room Only

1. The surroundings of Al Maha Desert are sublime, and offer the rare chance to experience the Dubai desert in all its glory.
2. Staying in a luxury Bedouin-style tent is always fun, though Al Maha Desert go one better with their private pools, terraces and memorable desert views for every suite.
3. The Al Maha Desert restaurant not only serves gourmet food, but enjoys sweeping panoramas from its dining terrace to match.
4. Treating yourself to an afternoon in the spa is a real highlight here.
5. Activities come thick and fast at Al Maha Desert, with plenty of excursions and wildlife tours to look forward to, including the hotel’s own conservation efforts.
6. Whilst you are suitably isolated in the desert here, having the highlights of Dubai less than an hour away is a real plus if looking to get a taste of the city.